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Mortgage Rates

Home Prices Up or Down

What’s Next for Home Prices and Mortgage Rates?

If you’re planning to move this year, two key housing market factors are likely on your mind: home prices and mortgage rates. You’re probably wondering what the future holds and whether it’s better to act now or wait. The best approach is to base your decision on the latest information. Here’s what experts are saying about both home prices and mortgage rates: What’s Next for Home Prices? A reliable source for home price forecasts is the Home Price Expectations Survey from Fannie Mae – which gathers insights from over one hundred economists, real estate experts, and market strategists. According to […]

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Mortgage Rates

Two Key Factors Influencing Mortgage Rates

As a potential homebuyer, monitoring mortgage rates is likely a priority for you. Recently, these rates have seen significant fluctuations – from historic lows to dramatic increases, and now a slight decrease. But what drives these changes? The factors influencing mortgage rates are diverse and complex. Let’s explore a couple of the most significant ones. Inflation and the Role of the Federal Reserve Although the Federal Reserve (commonly known as the Fed) does not set mortgage rates directly, its actions significantly influence them. The Fed adjusts the Federal Funds Rate in response to inflation, economic conditions, and employment rates, among

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Happy Couple New Home Buyers

The Downward Trend in Mortgage Rates is Good for Sellers

For homeowners contemplating selling but hesitant due to previously high mortgage rates, the current downward trend in rates is a welcome development. Since peaking at 7.79% last October, mortgage rates have consistently stayed below 7% for over a month (refer to the accompanying graph): While rates may not return to the exceptionally low 3% of the past ‘unicorn’ years, they are anticipated to decrease further in the near future. Dean Baker, Senior Economist at the Center for Economic Research, notes: “It also appears that mortgage rates are now falling again. They will almost certainly not fall to pandemic lows, although

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Real Estate Agent Meeting with Clients

Three Biggest Impacts on Home Affordability

In the last year, the topic of housing affordability has been a major point of discussion, with many noting its increasing difficulty. However, there has been some recent easing in this area. A key factor in this change is the reduction in mortgage rates since their peak in October. But, understanding home affordability goes beyond just looking at mortgage rates. To fully grasp the concept of home affordability, it’s essential to consider a trio of critical elements: mortgage rates, home prices, and wages. Here’s an in-depth look at the latest trends in each of these areas, shedding light on why

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Mortgage Rates

Understanding the Impact of Lower Mortgage Rates on Home Buying Power

Knowing the influence of mortgage rates on your purchasing capacity and monthly payments is crucial when considering buying a home. Thankfully, 30-year fixed mortgage rates have significantly decreased since late October, now falling below 7% as reported by Freddie Mac (refer to the graph below): This downward trend in rates is a positive development for prospective home buyers. As Bankrate recently highlighted: “The rate cool-off somewhat eases the housing affordability squeeze.” Edward Seiler, AVP of Housing Economics and Executive Director of the Research Institute for Housing America at the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), also notes: “MBA expects that affordability conditions

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2024 Mortgage Rate Forecast

Understanding the Current Mortgage Landscape in New Jersey: 2024 Outlook

As we step into 2024, it’s essential for homebuyers and homeowners in New Jersey to stay informed about the current mortgage interest rates, recent trends, and what to expect in the year ahead. Here’s a detailed look at the mortgage landscape in New Jersey, using up-to-date statistics and facts. Current Mortgage Interest Rates in New Jersey As of January 1, 2024, the mortgage interest rates in New Jersey are experiencing a period of fluctuation. The current interest rates listed on Bankrate.com stand at 7.00% for a 30-year fixed mortgage and 6.35% for a 15-year fixed mortgage. These rates reflect the

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Increasing Mortgage Rates

Mortgage Rates Hit 8%: A Historic Milestone

For the first time since the turn of the millennium, average mortgage rates have surged to 8%. This is a significant development for both homebuyers and homeowners in New Jersey and across the nation. At Countryside Homes NJ and , we understand the implications of this change and are here to guide you through what this means for your real estate journey. Source: Google A Look Back: The Year 2000 The last time we saw mortgage rates hover around the 8% mark was in the year 2000. It was a different era: the dot-com bubble was at its peak, Y2K

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Are High Mortgage Rates the New Norm?

Are High Mortgage Rates the New Norm?

Over the past few years, mortgage rates have been steadily climbing, attracting significant attention from the media. Those who have been keeping tabs on the headlines may have noticed that rates have recently reached their highest point in over two decades, as illustrated in the graph below. For those contemplating a significant move, this uptick in rates might feel like an unexpected setback. If you’re deliberating whether to postpone your plans or forge ahead, here’s the essential information you need. Understanding the Impact of Elevated Mortgage Rates There’s no denying that mortgage rates are currently higher than they have been

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